Have you been putting off having a massage because you are not sure exactly what you would like? Swedish massage is an option, and so are hot stone techniques, shiatsu and aromatherapy. How can you choose one to try? Having a good collection of massage tips at the ready will help to keep you well prepared.
When you are giving your massage, try to have music playing in the room. This music should be very soothing and calm, without many words. Music therapy can help soothe the muscles so that you can maximize the overall experience and help your overall technique during the massage that you give.
Two massages per week will do you well. Quite a few people have found that frequent massages boost mood and health. Massage is very relaxing, so it is understandable that it reduces stress. You should shoot for scheduling regular massages.
You should try different techniques when giving a massage. Use your hands and fingers to rub, apply pressure or even give gentle taps. Use the tip of your fingers if you need precision, for instance to relax a tense muscle. You could also try covering as much surface as possible by using the palm of your hands to apply pressure.
Visit a licensed therapist only. A licensed masseuse has received specialized training and will understand your specific needs better. Hiring a professional will guarantee a specific professionalism advocated by the person’s industry.
Ask you friends who they use for their massages. It can be hard to find a massage therapist that you are comfortable with, but knowing that someone you know uses and trusts them you will feel that much better about it. Ask as many people as you can before you decide on one to try.
The feet are an often overlooked area that needs to be massaged. There are many pressure points in the feet that can relax the body as a whole and give the entire body a sense of well being. Focus on one foot at a time and use as much pressure as your partner will allow.
A foot massage can be given to yourself with a simple technique that most athletes know of. Message your feet by rolling over a tennis or golf ball. Roll the ball under your foot from one side to the other and from the toes to the heel. Pay special attention to the arch of your foot because it is more sensitive and needs extra stretching and strengthening to stay strong.
Pay attention to how your partner responds during a massage. If your partner tenses up, you are probably massaging him or her in a way that is too intense. If your partner seems to feel tickled, you might be going too light with your fingers. Paying attention can help you to find the right balance that will really please your partner.
After your client becomes comfortable with the massage, increase the speed. Starting slow allows the recipient to get familiar with your touch. Then you can later move faster with your hands and apply more pressure.
Consider a hot shower after a massage. A hot shower can further relax your muscles, and it gives you an opportunity to stand still and enjoy all the benefits of the massage. The hot water is also very relaxing, lending to the stress free atmosphere you have probably hoped to create.
Shiatsu massage is used by gently applying firm pressure into affected meridians then quickly releasing it. This type of massage is perfect for those suffering from tired muscles that need immediate relief. Unlike other types of massage, this massage does not leave the person feeling sore afterwards; instead, they feel refreshed and renewed.
A proper environment is essential to a successful therapeutic back massage at home. The ideal location is in a quiet, warm and relaxed environment. If you’re not doing the massage in an area like that, the person you’re massaging may not be able to relax or reap all of the benefits of a therapeutic massage.
You may already know that it is customary to tip your masseuse. If you are new to this, tipping 15% to 20% is customary. The only time you shouldn’t think about tipping is if you are getting physical therapy treatments at a medical facility. Never hand your masseuse a wad of cash, leave it at the front desk with the clerk.
Try playing soft music while giving a massage. This will create a tranquil state of mind during the massage. This type of mental prep work helps release muscle tension. You’ll be able to work out the tight muscles better and give a more effective massage.
Massage your hands when you put lotion on. For an effective hand massage, begin by massaging your palms in a circular motion. Use a circular motion to massage the area just below the thumb using the other thumb. Use your thumbs and index fingers to massage your palms, wrists, and fingers.
Wash your feet before massaging them. You will not have to worry about germs once your feet are clean and the massage will be a lot more enjoyable once the skin is made more sensitive by the warm water. If you experience pain, soak your feet in warm water again after the massage.
When you’re near a sink, grab some soothing lotion and give your hands a little massage of their own. The hands and palms are often overlooked during the massage process. Once a week is enough to feel a big improvement in the flexibility of your fingers and reduces the development of arthritis.
You do not have to get totally naked during a massage if you do not feel comfortable with that. You can strip down to your undergarments and have the masseuse cover you up with a towel. This way you can get your entire body massaged without feeling the least bit awkward.
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